ADAMS BLOW BUT SOL RECOVERS

The Highbury hero will miss a key part of The Gunners' Champions League campaign, and, at 35, will be frustrated that his season is being badly affected by injuries.

It is believed he has suffered a stress fracture to his foot, and Arsene Wenger may not be able to call upon his reliable captain for the big Premiership fixtures with neighbours Tottenham and title rivals Manchester United.

However, another defensive injury victim, Sol Campbell, has recovered from a hamstring strain.

The former Spurs centre back came through a full training session at Arsenal's Shenley Training Centre, and is tipped to make a first team return in the near future.

Much will be expected of Campbell, who has had a slightly shaky start to his career at Highbury, as Wenger views the England international as the natural replacement for Adams at the heart of the defence.